For many students, summer is something to look forward to; a break from deadlines, lectures and early starts. But for others, it can feel somewhat difficult.
Whether you’re staying in Bristol while friends head home, or returning to a family environment that feels a bit complicated, loneliness can show up in ways you might not expect.
If you’re staying in Bristol this summer
A quieter campus and fewer familiar faces can feel isolating. But Bristol is still very much alive over the summer and there are ways to stay connected, often without spending much money.
Find low-pressure ways to meet people
Look for relaxed, drop-in style activities where there’s no expectation to already know anyone.
- Bristol Social (discover local social groups)
- Meetup (discover local meet-up groups)
- Bristol Girl (community for women in Bristol)
- Eventbrite Bristol (local events)
- Become a MoveGB member and discover hundreds of fitness classes across Bristol (£1 for 14 days)
You could also try:
- Board game cafés like Chance & Counters (regular social events)
- Creative spaces like Spike Island (free exhibitions and a calm place to spend time)
- Cinema and café spaces like Watershed (often host talks and screenings you can attend solo)
- The Wardrobe Theatre (affordable leading fringe theatre venue in Old Market)
Make the most of Bristol’s outdoor spaces
Getting outside can help break up long days and lift your mood.
- Clifton Downs – ideal for a walk, a picnic or just sitting in the sun
- Brandon Hill – a quieter green space with views over the city
- Harbourside – a good place for a walk, coffee, or sitting by the water
Stay connected to university support
Even outside of term time, our support services are still there if you need them.
- UWE Wellbeing Service: https://www.uwe.ac.uk/life/health-and-wellbeing
Create your own routine
Without the structure of lectures, days can blur together. Try building small activities into your week. For example:
- A regular study or job-search block
- A weekly trip to a café (Stokes Croft and Park Street have lots of great options)
- A set time for exercise or a walk
Do something that gets you around people (without pressure)
Even being around others can help you feel less isolated, even if you don’t know them personally. For example:
- Visiting Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
- Spending time at St Nicholas Market
- Sitting with a book or laptop at a busy café
If you’re going home (and it feels complicated)
Going home isn’t always a simple or comforting experience. Family dynamics, expectations, or feeling like you’ve changed while everything else hasn’t can all contribute to anxiety or loneliness.
Set realistic expectations
It’s okay if things don’t feel perfect. Try to avoid putting pressure on yourself to have a ‘perfect summer’ or to fix long-standing dynamics in a short time.
Keep part of your independence
Maintaining small elements of your university routine; whether that’s going for a solo coffee, continuing hobbies, or setting aside time for yourself can help you feel grounded.
Stay digitally connected
Regular messages, voice notes or video calls with friends in Bristol or elsewhere can remind you that your support network is still there and that these periods of time are just temporary
Small steps that can help, wherever you are
Loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone, it’s about feeling disconnected. The good news is that even small actions can help rebuild that sense of connection.
Reach out to existing or old friends in your hometown
Sending a simple message like “How are you getting on?” can often lead to more connection than you expect.
Get outside
Spending time outdoors has been linked to improved mood and reduced stress: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/nature-and-mental-health).
Limit comparison
Social media can make it seem like everyone else is having an amazing summer. Remember, social media isn’t real: you’re only seeing a highlight reel.
Know when to ask for support
If loneliness starts to feel overwhelming or persistent, it’s important to speak to someone.
- Samaritans (24/7 support): https://www.samaritans.org/
- NHS mental health support: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Final thought
Summer can look very different for everyone. Whether you’re staying in Bristol, heading home, or somewhere in between, your experience is valid.
Connection doesn’t have to be big or dramatic; sometimes it’s just one message, one conversation, or one small plan that helps.
And if this summer feels tough, that doesn’t mean it will always feel that way.